ZEISS Active Scanning Technology

Active scanning probes

For maximum flexibility, speed and accuracy

ZEISS Active Scanning Technology

As the inventor of tactile scanning, ZEISS takes this technology to the next level with the innovative concept of active probe heads. Real-time controllable force coils and electromagnets make it possible to exert the lowest effective force on the stylus at any point along the scanning path and to follow the actual geometry. ZEISS thus enables fast and precise scanning with maximum flexibility.

ZEISS VAST XT gold

ZEISS VAST XT gold

Entering the world of active scanning

ZEISS VAST XTR gold

ZEISS VAST XTR gold

Highly dynamic thanks to integrated rotary axis

ZEISS VAST gold

ZEISS VAST gold

Robust, dynamic probe with high scanning speeds

Functionality

Active scanning

Active scanning

Flexible and pioneering

An active coordinate measuring system uses electrically controlled force coils to exert a uniform force on the probe - regardless of its length, weight, position or alignment. The active system monitors deviations in real time and adjusts the measuring force so that it remains as low and uniform as possible. This increases accuracy and speeds up the entire process.

Conventional and active scanning

ZEISS distinguishes between conventional and active scanning. Although both methods capture surface data via the movement of a touch probe connected to a sensor, there are major differences in how they work. Conventional scanning systems work with (mechanical) springs that hold the probe in its neutral position and measure deflections using optical sensors or sensors that react based on a change in the flux density of the magnetic field as the probe moves over the surface or contour. Active scanning systems use software-controlled electromagnets and force regulators instead, thus ensuring a uniform and lower load on the stylus.

Active scanning

Active scanning

Active scanning probe heads with electromagnetic controls that exert a constant force on the probe.

Conventional scanning

Conventional scanning

Conventional scanning probe heads with mechanical springs that hold the probe in its neutral position.

ZEISS VAST Navigator & Performance Package

Exploit the full potential of your CMM

High scanning speeds

High scanning speeds

ZEISS VAST Navigator

ZEISS VAST Navigator is included in every active scanning system. This enables more flexible measurement as certain parameters such as the mass and length of the stylus, as well as the bending force, are also taken into account during scanning.

Flexible scanning parameters

Flexible scanning parameters

Expert mode for ZEISS VAST Navigator

This module automatically adjusts the measuring speed to altered tolerances and takes shape and position tolerances into account in order to always automatically use the maximum speed depending on the measuring task.

For increased measurement options

For increased measurement options

ZEISS VAST Performance

The VAST performance package maximizes the productivity of your CMM. The integrated FlyScan function achieves time savings of up to 60% by allowing interrupted edges to be scanned at high speed.

Vorteile von aktiven Scanning-Sensoren
Advantages of active scanning probes

Advantages of active scanning probes

  • Correction of the measuring force in real time
  • Significantly faster than conventional scanning
  • Automatic dynamic bending correction (VAST navigator)
  • Automatic correction of the scanning path due to geometric actual deviations
  • More application options for long and heavy stylus systems

Contact us​

Interested in exploring our products or services further? We're excited to offer you more details or a live demo, either remotely or in person.​

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